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5 Signs Your Boss Is on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown

An effective leader is important in order to ensure the successful management of a company. If your boss is on the verge of having a nervous breakdown, that could spell a sure sign of disaster on the way. Of course, we’re not making light of someone having a nervous breakdown, which is a very serious mental health condition. However, for those watching from the sidelines, a boss on the verge of a breakdown can be a stressful situation for you as well. Take a look at the five signs that indicate your boss may be on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

1. Jekyll and Hyde Syndrome

You may think it’s time for an intervention if your boss is experiencing Jekyll and Hyde Syndrome where one minute he’s Mr. Nice Guy and the next his inner monster escapes. You’ve noticed your boss experiencing these strange mood changes and you can see the stress all over his face. Get that expense report signed off and head out of his office back to the safe zone at your desk. That situation can definitely become a problem for cultivating a positive workplace environment.

2. Stress-Induced Memory Issues

This sign can come as quite the shocker. Your boss used to be the poster child for having an excellent memory. However, he barely remembers the names of anyone in your department lately. During your monthly staff meeting, you’re surprised that your boss is the one staring off into space and all the employees are left trying to pick up the pieces of organizing work tasks. When you go to your boss to say goodbye and that you’ll see him next week when you’re back from vacation, his surprised expression could tell you he has completely forgotten about your scheduled trip. Get out fast before he tries to make you stay.

3. Complete Loss of Appetite

If your boss has completely lost her appetite for all her favorite foods, you and your coworkers may need to start thinking of starting an intervention. After all, you can’t have a fearless leader who is no longer able to be fearless because she’s adding to her misery by not eating. As the designated office gopher and food order taker, you know exactly what foods your boss likes—and even her favorite chicken salad no longer entices her away from her work or from staring off into space.

4. The Isolation and No Interest Factor

Another sign to watch out for which may indicate that your boss is on the verge of a nervous breakdown is the isolation and loss of interest factor. If your once energetic and fun-loving boss is continually turning down offers to hang out for Friday night Happy Hour, take notice. If your boss never leaves her office anymore and barely sneaks out to the bathroom, all the while glancing around furtively to see if anyone spots her, she may be on the verge of a breakdown.

5. Outward Stress and Physical Tension

This final sign may be one that is obvious yet at the same time difficult to read if you haven’t been paying attention. Your boss may be more fidgety than usual or constantly complaining about having tension headaches. When your boss is experiencing these signs, you may want to steer clear and run for cover. The last thing you need is to deal with an anxiety-ridden, overworked and stressful boss.

Have you ever had to deal with a boss who was on the verge of a nervous breakdown? How did you handle the situation? Let us know in the comments section below!